Replacing Bent 3,500lb Axle In 2001 Nash 18FM Travel Trailer 6 Lug
Updated 10/09/2026 | Published 10/07/2026
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Question:
Good day. We have a 2001 Nash 18 FM travel trailer, factory shipping weight is around 6,200 lb, with two 3500 lb axles, 6 lug. one of the axles is bent, This set up seems to be at the limit, perhaps a heavier up graded axles would be better? One problem is that these axles are not typical, They are Dexter but the spring centers are 68.5 inch, and 85.58 hub. As far as frame these frames are better built then Lippert! they are produced in house by Nash. we have reached out to Dexter and are waiting for a response, serial on the axles are 611583215. besides wear on the inside tire the tire is now rubbing on the shock. thanks for your help, CJ
asked by: CJ C
Expert Reply:
Hey CJ!
The measurements you gave are very close to two axles we carry. Both the Lippert # LC33PK and # LC73PK have a 68-1/2" spring-center and 86" hub-face measurement, so I suspect your 85.58" hub-face measurement may just be slightly off. If it is truly 85.6", it won't be enough to cause any issues at all.
The # LC33PK is overslung, meaning the springs mount above the axle for more ground clearance. The # LC73PK is underslung, with the springs below the axle so the trailer rides lower.
I wouldn't upgrade the axle since you'd have to upgrade both axles and the suspension and hubs/brakes etc., and you'd still be limited to the lowest capacity part if that makes sense. Not saying you can't go that route, but it's a big rabbit hole.
If you need new hubs and brakes, the 6 on 5-1/2" hub/drum # AKHD-655-35-EZ-K is compatible with these 3,500-lb axles, and I would pair it with the Dexter self-adjusting brake kit # 23-468-469 if you need new brakes.
As far as Dexter versus Lippert, I wouldn't be concerned about using the Lippert axle here. Both are good-quality options. Dexter does have a strong reputation, but I don't see a Dexter axle in this exact size that we currently carry, so you could also see what Dexter or Nash can provide.
Let me know what you think or if I misunderstood anything CJ!
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Lippert Trailer Axle Beam with Super Lube Spindles - 86" Long - 2.5K to 3.5K - Overslung
- Trailer Axles
- Leaf Spring Suspension
- Standard Grade
- No Hubs
- 3500 lbs
- Spindles Only
- 68-1/2 Inch Spring Center
- 86 Inch Hub Face
- No Drop or Lift
- Lippert
more information >
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on Trailer Axles
Cj C.
10/8/2026
Hey thanks Andrew, We have a overslung unit, And the measurements are confirmed by Dexter via ser# as 85.58" hub seems they made only four of these for Nash. odd size we found out, So with the 86" by Lippert could work better? since the tire and shock are only around less then 3/4" from each other as of now! 86" would give a slightly better gap between the two, to allow flex so not to rub around corners/turn forces? We just recently replaced the Dexter brakes so these would be compatible with Lippert? and we would change the bearings new to the new axles, could you link the # inter/outer & seal? thoughts? Thank you sir. C